Hemmingway's Bistro

Just celebrated my ma birthday here and was awesome! My first time here but her like 50th time. We had the house salad, fresh and tasty, escargot was delicious. Bread and butter warm. Drinks summer refreshing. Main course had scallops and the halibut. So good. Dessert had the chocolate mouse. Axel was an outstanding server, knowledgeable, friendly and very attentive. Atmosphere was good, music playing on speakers, Definitely will be back! Kuddos!

Very disappointed! We were so excited to finally eat here and the food was terrible. In a time when eating at home is very inexpensive, it's expected that restaurants (especially high-priced places) NEED to have a top-notch menu. Even the menu didn't look appetizing. I knew right away that the food was going to be awful because the Manhattan cocktail I ordered was the worst cocktail I've ever had in my life. I ALWAYS predict the food based on a Manhattan or an Old Fashioned-- and well, my theory held true. The bread I had tasted like chewing gum. The duck I had tasted like a Costco rotisserie chicken leg and my wife's steak frites tasted like week old liver. The fries were okay. The salad on both of our plates looked and tasted like the salad that's at the bottom of an Aldi mixed salad container (look at the picture provided). I ended up eating everything on my plate because I was very hungry! At no point did our server ask us how the food was because I'm quite certain that even he knew it was trash. Save your hard earned money and eat somewhere else. I will never eat here again, even if someone paid me. Seriously, the chef needs to be evaluated. The servers were nice tho.

It was a beautiful afternoon, so lunch at Hemingway's was necessary. The sidewalk seating is wonderful in the shade of umbrellas and the inn. The menu is full of bistro classics. We went for two specials of the day: the foie Gras appetizer with figs and honey, and the halibut with asparagus, potatoes, and mushrooms. Both were delicious. Dessert was profiteroles, also very nice. Summer having lunch outside is perfection.

What a lovely little french bistro for brunch! My boyfriend and I came in on a lazy Saturday and had a delicious meal. They have some very kind and attentive wait staff. I highly recommend the crepes grantineé. They are very rich. My partner got the lox plate, and said that he wished he'd gotten something else, but it was still very well done. Highly recommend stopping by for some coffee, wine, and good company!

Had a great meal here. The soup of the day was a mushroom bisque and it was amazing. Staff were kind. I sat outside and watched the world go by. Great spot.

The shrimp cocktail was delicious. The shrimp were all jumbo. 6 shrimp. If you like escargot, they make it for you there-slight hint of Pernod. Plenty of garlic and herbs. Not the best I've ever had but it was a decent attempt. The burger was definitely dreadful being overdone the bun was dry. The French fries were cold, soggy and tasted like frozen fries heated in an oven left out and then reheated in an attempt to save them. Awful for a restaurant of this caliper. The bartender knows how to make a very dry martini. I'd go back to try an entree. The blackened salmon sandwich was decent. But, alas, the same dreadful fries were served with it. Don't have the fries at lunch.

Outstanding!! Thanks to Axel for the fantastic service. This was our first time here based on reccomendations from friends and it did not disappoint. The building and atmosphere are classic, romantic and unique. Food was amazing. We started with the cheese plate where you can choose the types you'd like to try. Whitefish was a good serving size with a wonderful sauce served with spinach and mashed. Desserts were yummy. I would especially recommend the chocolate mousse. Delicious and a generous portion. My favorite. This would be an excellent choice of restaurants for a romantic date, girl or guys night out, friends groups....special occasions. Anytime you want a good meal in a classy joint. Cocktail menu looked very appealing.

The Beef Wellington for Valentine’s Day was superb! Nice thick cut, cooked a perfect medium rare! Absolutely delicious!

The wife and I chose Hemmingway's for the 49th anniversary of our first date. We've dined there many times over the years and find that their menu changes, but their standards do not. We started with the chicken liver paté, which came with all the usual accoutrements, was satisfying, if a bit less rich than the typical duck liver patés we've had. I ordered the scallops, and my wife ordered the cassoulet. Both delicious and satisfying. We left room for dessert, which was the soufflé (we ordered when we came in: it takes time to prepare). Dark chocolate and raspberry coulis. What more do you need to know? OK, our waiter, Axel, was courteous, attentive without hovering, and knew the menu backwards and forwards. Shortly after we arrived, a party sat at the next table, and one of the women was wearing an overpowering perfume, to which I'm allergic. I asked to be moved, and we got a new table without a hitch, thank you very much! The setting will remind well traveled diners of a traditional European style pension or hotel, because that's what it is. Charming old world vibe. Plenty of parking around the corner.

Always wanted to try this place. Went with a colleague when I was on a work trip to Chicago area. Sat outside. Very nice service. I was torn about what to order -- ended up ordering the Cobb salad. I remember it not being great. I would not order it there again. Place was fairly expensive as well. If I ever go again, I'll have to try something different. I'm

My wife and I were recently here for their Sunday brunch. She had the omelette and I had the eggs Benedict and they were both very good! We had this with the buffet that has all sorts of goodies including oysters and crab claws and crème brule. Everything tasted great and the service/live music was amazing. We will be back for brunch and will also look into an early dinner with oyster and drink specials!

Oh my gosh! Where to start? The lobster special was a standout, offering a whole lobster and sides for just $40--a fantastic deal! The charming decor added to the enjoyable dining experience. Highly recommended.

Food and cocktails were wonderful. Sat at the bar; great ambiance. Bartender was very nice. Cozy place to be on a cold evening.

Fantastic, fresh food. This place is known for its seafood and has a good variety of well-prepared dishes like crab cakes, mussels, clams, fish, and shrimp. But the menu also has traditional French-inspired fare like baked Brie, fresh salads, and some vegetarian options. The vibe is romantic but not stuffy. Good place for a date.

We have been here three times, once for dinner and twice for brunch. Each time we had Tom as the server and each time he was amazing and a lot of fun. The actual space is located in the basement (sort of) of a hotel of sorts. There are stairs that lead down a level, then you have to go down a second set of stairs to get to the restaurant. Space-wise it is not that large and seating can be tight, depending on where you are seated. There is a cute bar to your immediate right as you enter the restaurant. Once you go to the back of the restaurant, there is another eating area that is elevated with additional tables. When we had dinner there, it was in the winter of 2022. As one reviewer mentioned, it was very hot but the table we were sitting at was near a window that was open, so we were getting some cool air. But at some point I had to ask Tom to close it a bit as it was getting cold even for me. As a starter, I got Foie Gras du Jour. It came with caramelized fruit, candy onions, parsnip puree, balsamic vinaigrette There was a generous portion of of the foie gras and it was very good. Keeping on that path I also got the Beef Wellington. with a mushroom duxelle, foie gras, all of which was wrapped in puff pastry and a red wine sauce. If you are interested in this dish, be aware that it is only available on Saturday & Sundays. I thought this was prepared well, the beef was tender and the pastry was nice a flakey. The Queen got the Maine Lobster a la Champagne with julienne vegetables, spaghettini, champagne cream and of course lobster. This was a lovely looking entre and there was plenty of lobster in it. She enjoyed it a lot. For dessert I got the soufflé. I was told up front that if I wanted that, I would need to place my order in advance due to the time it took to prepare it. Once it came out, it was beautifully prepared and plated. It was very light and airy. For brunch, it is a like a hybrid one: there is a station with pastries, muffins, cheeses, cured meats, smoked salmon, croissants, fruit, and seafood (oysters, shrimp and crab legs). Then you are also allowed to order off of the brunch menu. The first time I got the Ham, Gruyere and Egg Sandwich (French ham, gruyere, sunny side egg, béchamel sauce, brioche); this was an excellent dish, with a hint of sweetness. I felt like the bread had been prepared like French toast. It was a nice touch of savory and sweet that I enjoyed. The second time I came for brunch I got the Roast du Jour, which was pork medallions with mashed potatoes and green beans. Different vibe for me for brunch but nonetheless good. Another great thing about brunch is that there is live music, with vocals by Petra Van Nois, who is amazing. It is a nice touch while having a meal and drink. The wine list is pretty nice...there are about five bubbles ranging from $55 to $230, with two of my favorites being on their: Perrier-Jouet, Fleur "04" ($230.00) and Cremant d'Alsace Rose, Burckel Jung ($70). The red and white lists looks pretty good as well, but honestly I only focus on bubbles. Getting here can be a bit of a hike coming from Chicago, but it is worth it every now and then. And the best part is if you are a first time visitor, check in on Yelp and get 15% off or at least I did earlier this year. Give it and this place a try.

Let me start with service, because it was the best part! The service is impeccable! Our server was knowledgeable and really nice! No complains at all! Perfect! The restaurant has a good location but no parking. It is ok because you can always find a spot on the street. Food was ok. My dish was average ( chicken salad) but my friend's dish was awesome! I tried it and it was so savory and tasty! Delicious! She ordered some crepes (even though it doesn't look like classic crepes, you will see the photo). All in all I think this place needs some renovation, but- maybe it is the goal to keep place like this, a little bit old fashioned, I don't know‍

Stopped by after finding this place on yelp while walking in the area. Located in a historic looking hotel. The service is warm and welcoming. The food was delicious. My only regret is not staying for dessert: wanted to try the soufflé but it takes 40 minutes to bake.

Had a lovely dinner at Hemingway's Bistro although it was hot as Hades inside on the evening we dined. Very attentive and courteous server. Started with French onion soup (fantastic) and mushroom soup (okay). We weren't terribly hungry, so our mains were the blue cheese endive salad and food gras, both of which were delicious. For dessert, apple pie and mango soufflé. When we first sat down, the waiter told us the soufflé took about 40 minutes, so I told him right then I would order one now. It took about 30 mins after we finished our entrees for it to come out. Super annoying cause it made us late to our next engagement. But it was very tasty.

We had Sunday brunch here today. The food was fabulous, the service was great, and the value was solid. For roughly $50 one gets an entrée selection, access to a Buffet with pastries, salads, quiche, etc. dessert and a champagne cocktail. I had the white fish piccata, which they call white fish with capers and lemon butter sauce. It was so delicious. My friend had the traditional breakfast. I would definitely go back.

Plenty of delicious food options for a night out with family or friends. Good beverages, a lot of different wines and some good cocktails. I like the house beer. Service is excellent. Love the French bistro ambiance, and plenty of seating.

The place is a bit old fashioned and located in the lower floor of the building. The waiter was super sweet and the service was great, which is why I gave a higher rating. The food, however, was average at best. For the price, I'd certainly expect much better. I don't think I'll be coming back.

Love this place when we visit Oak Park. The oysters were great. Tried the Shrimp appetizer and fantastic. Never had been Wellington before and it was great.

This place is everything. The ambiance right away sets the tone then followed by the service. The food is just amazing. I highly recommend to eat here. From date night to a large family dinner all of the food hit every taste bud on every plate. Like to wow a date this is the place to eat. This small restaurant packs a huge punch with an official menu selection. Will be back for sure and will be a regular.

Dinner was wonderful. What an adorable spot with an authentic French ambiance down to the white tablecloths. Our food was absolutely delicious and a great value for the quality. The service was excellent with generous pours of wine and cocktails. We enjoyed everything from the homemade, complimentary french bread to the decadent souffle for dessert. They supposedly have a champagne Sunday brunch and we plan to be back. Fabulous!

We generally come here once or twice a year, largely because the husband likes it. I remain unimpressed and highly stressed when we hit the 90 minute mark and I know it's only minutes before he gets grouchy that the meal is taking so long. No matter what you do to try to rush yourself along ("we can order everything now!") this is always going to be close to 2 hours start to finish. And why? We aren't ordering anything insane, we are t slow eaters. Don't you want to turn the table? The cassoulet was not my favorite. It's too soupy and where are the breadcrumbs on the top? While the meats in it are fully cooked, the veg and beans seem half cooked. The chicken pot pie has little to no chicken and the cheese plate comes with whopping three pieces of crostini. It's just not worth it to me, no matter how much of an "institution" the place is.

This is a gorgeous intimate setting for any occasion. I went here for lunch and was beyond impressed. It's in a cute building just down a some stairs and around a corner. They do also have outdoor seating which is a great option in such a unique neighborhood. The service was great from start to finish. It wasn't overly crowded, but you'd most certainly want to have a reservation for dinner judging by what I've seen on Open Table. But the food...ok the food is unbelievable. The crab cake was perfect. The wrapped Brie was so well balanced with honey and a sprinkle of almond slices. Each of the various veggies, sauces, and garnishes were fresh and well thought out. The steak I'd ordered was done as requested. The accompanying fries were unimpressive but why was I ordering fries in a French restaurant? I'll take the blame for that one. Finished with a soufflé that should be ordered first but will be so worth it. Take a date here or celebrate a special occasion here and you will have a totally unforgettable experience.

For over 20 years this has been one of my favorite French venues and my absolute favorite Oak Park restaurant, that's what makes this review so difficult. Unfortunately the restaurant put a child in charge of the host stand, our experience was unbelievably rude and childlike, she literally told us to go sit down when we asked about our reservation. Someone should take the time to explain to this young lady what it takes to be successful in the hospitality industry. I will not be back.....

Super cute place, great date place. The service was really nice and I loved that they gave us our space and I did not feel rushed at all. Got the mushroom bisque which was okay but wow is there a huge difference in the size of the cup/bowl- go with the bowl. The prosciutto wrapped scallops were amazing. Perfectly cooked but I did feel that it was heavy on the capers. Reasonably priced. Would come back!

A tasteless clam chowder, served not-hot A thin broth with overcooked vegetables and no seafood taste, and certainly lacking in clams. The entree duck leg confit was tough, dry and tiny. Shoestring fries, over fried. Best of entire order was the flavored mayonnaise. A long wait for entrees to arrive. After more customers arrived, no water or bread was provided. Most in the group paid in cash to avoid the 3.percent credit card surcharge. I used a credit card then had to find the cashier who had trouble finding my card. Thank God for the pleasant company. The rest, not good. $43 with a twenty percent plus tip. Would you return?

My niece and myself have been trying to go to Hemingway's bistro for the last few years. Well, we finally went today to celebrate my birthday I was so excited because I love French onion soup. in a French restaurant. It's gonna be great. It was the worst French onion soup I ever ate in my life the French onion soup tasted like onions with water. The cheese was just thrown into the soup half melted , and we also each ordered a small salad both had no dressing just greens. We ordered a crabcake to share for an appetizer and they brought us out a piece of toast. I think it was lobster toast so I had to send that back so-once the crabcake finally came so did the soup and the salad at the same time, I will not be back. Very disappointed.!!!

Had an early dinner at Hemingway's and it was a very enjoyable experience. Our service was outstanding and Axel, our server, was extremely professional and delivered preeminent service to us. Best server we have had in a long time. The bread was excellent which is a must for a French bistro, pate great and generous cocktails. We had the halibut which was delicious and the lobster which was okay. A bit inconsistent , part tender and part tough but this can be expected. Great crème brûlée. We will go back and make the drive from Evanston to eat here.

Excellent food and superb service. Went for group lunch and really enjoyed it. Would go again.

This is an amazing gem with great food, impeccable service and the quiet interior very well appointed with white table cloths and beautiful flowers both on the table and at the windows. We happened upon this bistro after touring the Frank Lloyd Wright houses and could not have been more pleased with this restaurant discovery. My family and I would go there all the time except we were visiting from Los Angeles. We still talk about it!

The food was awesome. My wife had the white fish and I had the duck. Blue point oysters were clean and tasty. The crab cake was ok as it had a lot of filler. The craft cocktails were plenty but I didn't have time to try them all. I had the Manhattan noir and a goose martini. Don't know if our server was new but none of the specials were gone over or the desserts. It was disappointing when we heard the specials explained by another server. We will definitely be back. If you check in on Yelp Sunday through Thursday there is a coupon for 15% off of food.

Discovered this place when visiting the Frank Lloyd Wright home and studio just a few blocks away. We went early and had wonderful corner seating near the windows; it was boyfriend's birthday, so it was especially nice. Our waiter, Axel, was extraordinary. He knew the menu completely and his service was attentive, but not obtrusive. I had the oysters of the day and my bf had the crab cake. I highly recommend both. Our entrees -- the duck and the steak au poivre -- were amazing. The creme brulee was also very tasty; however, it could have been a little more dense overall. This is definitely a hidden gem in a very upscale neighborhood. We're looking forward to going back for what would appear to be a very plentiful and well done brunch at an affordable price.

Good food, warm and welcoming place. Food was slow but you know what the music was phenomenal. Very warm in temperature, loved it. But my French toast was very pasty and soggy, and felt raw

Great service and the food is spectacular. The wine by the glass was reasonably price and a nice touch. A very nice quiet atmosphere. Had a a great time, highly recommended.

Absolutely perfect dinner. Glorious inventive cocktails. Superb food. Grace attentive service. The lobster special is extraordinary- flawless preparation and beautiful. presentation. Artfully cracked to afford access to the sweet lobster meat.

Had an early birthday brunch!!! Was wowed by atmosphere. Cozy comfortable and service was great. It was a great meal, I had my favorite dish on earth escargot and the fresh made bread, then I had the crab cake Benedict on top of asparagus hollandaise was on point. Definitely going back!!!

Been twice for lunch and the food and service was excellent. The neighborhood is full of great architecture and many local restaurants and cafes.

Classic French bistro food seldom disappoints, and often has something special on the menu.

Very disappointed I get that Tuesday night they don't have their A-list chef... But when you plop down $150 for dinner for 2, it should be a good meal. Neither me or my mom liked our meals... they were terrible. She had the scallop dish, which was tasteless and bland. I had the rabbit on spaetzel, also bland and the spaetzel was basically paste. The dog wouldn't even eat the leftovers!

Tasteful restaurant. Impeccable service. Sat outdoors. Burger perfectly cooked. Plenty of fries. Next time I'll try a specialty meal.

Hello Foodzies, last night we went to Hemmingway's Bistro at 211 n Oak Park Ave. in Oak Park. The restaurant is located on the first floor of an old hotel. Once inside it's an older atmosphere, sparsely decorated with neutral colors. Classical music playing softly. Our server was Juan, he seemed like all business, maybe because we we dressed casually and not in our evening ware. Regardless, we started with an order of escargot, they were good size but slightly chewy but there was a nice butter garlic sauce (which we sopped up with the warm sourdough bread). For our entrees Glenda went for Duck a l'orange it came with braised cabbage, domme dauphine (a deep fried mash potato ball) not very tasty, it had an offsetting taste. The duck was served in a grand marnier sauce. The duck was juicy served as a half portion which required you to dispatch yourself. Not an easy task. The skin could have been a little more crispy for my taste, which would have rendered more of the fat out. I decided to go with the Indiana Rabbit Ragout that was prepared with wild mushrooms, peas and pappardelle pasta (wide flat noodles) in a sherry cream sauce. The rabbit was cooked perfectly, noodles needed a couple more minutes in the water and the peas were under cooked. I would have liked a little less sauce. It was nice to try something different, not sure we'll be returning though. I give this restaurant 2 1/2 stars, but don't take my word try it yourself and let me know what you think. Ciao Ciao for now.

The worst experience ever. Stinky oysters, salad arrived with no dressing The whitefish and spinach entree as ok but a small piece of oyster shell in the first bit of spinach. Very slow service. I dined there once before and had great experience but will never go back.

Horrible service. Inattentive server. Decent food but not worth going back. Nowhere to park

Always a good option in OP. Great menu and delicious French fare. The cocktails snd wine list is expansive. We enjoy the cute ambiance of a bistro feel.

Went Sunday may 21. From beginning to end it was phenomenal. The host was welcoming and friendly. Our waiter Darren could not have been more accommodating. Let us take our time. And the food was some of the best we've ever had. The beef wellington perfection. It actually reminded us when we were on the Amalfi Coast I think Capri. Best food ever. Anyway we definitely will be back. I won't eat so much this time so I can try the raspberry souffle. Thanks muchBeef Wellington

Had dinner last night, sort of disappointed. Heat was awful. Service excellent. Goat cheese salad with too much salad dressing. Mussels were tasty but just too small. Walleye was nice. Biggest disappointment was raspberry souffle, tasteless. Cant recommended at this time

Had dinner here with couple of my friends. Loved their appetizers. We ordered shrimp cocktail and oysters. it was really fresh. The place was packed but very clean. Loved the atmosphere.

The best meal I've had in Oak Park since I moved here. You'd think you were in Paris by its ambiance. Great music. Welcoming owners and great waitstaff. I will be back and bring my extended family with me!

Anytime we want to have a wonderful brunch we come to Hemingway's Bistro. The food is Amazing. We had a party of Six today and they were all impressed as we always are. Tom was our server he is always a Wonderful Man we have had him a few times and we so enjoy him. Beautiful music is played and just a beautiful place. You can not go wrong. If you can't find a reservation on line just call them direct I did and fit us in. Thank you for a Wonderful Brunch Day!

Have been going to Hemmingway's for over 20 years. Sadly, things seem to have been slipping the last few years. The ambiance is still charming, and the service is very good. However, the food has taken a dive while the prices have risen higher. Went for their lobster special recently. $40 for a split lobster with potato and broccoli. I thought there may have been a mistake because there was virtually very little meat in my lobster, as if it had somehow shriveled up. I could not even cut the broccoli it was so under cooked. To add insult to injury they are now charging a 3% fee if you use a credit card. Who doesn't use a credit card? This new charge is posted in small letters at the bottom of the menu.

Our friends took us here for bunch today and we enjoyed the place, but pricey. We were not paying so I cannot say much, other than I would go to others restaurants first. The service here was amazing and our server was very good at entertaining us along with taking our orders. The lox on buffet we're very good and just ask for cream cheese and I was set. Shrimp were overcooked and I know my shrimp as I make them from raw every time I have shrimp at houses. We would go back just not often.

Despite a few visits to this local eatery, my most recent experience reminded me that sharing is caring. Sunday brunch is offered for $36.95 which features live jazz and a glass of champagne, tea or coffee. The food items include a variety of AYE cold food items, including smoked salmon, quiche, mussels, raw oysters on the half shell, fresh fruit and shrimp. In addition to the cold items, you can select a hot item of your choice. After finishing our hot items, we decided to linger and enjoy the music, and have another drink. What I did not expect is was the end. Interestingly, we both ordered mimosas. I requested more orange juice than champagne. Upon having a sip, I was not very impressed and decided against finishing it, leaving the glass 90% full. Our waiter, returned to bring another at my friend's request, but never asked if I would prefer something else or liked his pour. While I can appreciate it was his first day, the experience is the reason I am deducting a star from what would have been a four star rating. All in all, a good option in the area at a decent price point. ....... if having brunch, one glass is free. Each additional is $13.

Super food super service super setting I live almost within walking distance from there. I highly recommend this restaurant.

Was recommended we check this place out as a brunch spot - such a disappointment from start to finish. We did the buffet brunch, which lets you eat from their buffet as well as order a main, they also include a house champagne. The buffet was ok, fresh fruits, a quiche, some pastries and a seafood bar which consisted of shrimp and oysters that ended up making both of us sick (we did let the staff know the oysters were bad but did not hear back about them). The service was an attempt at subpar. We should have enjoyed more drinks then the first ones we ordered, but couldn't find or flag down our server before the main showed up. I ordered the eggs Benedict, which arrived through a totally different server overdone and the sauce had curdled from apparently sitting for to long. My partner ordered the chef's omelette which was watery. We saw our server to order our drinks, order our main, and never again. We had to go to the bar to pay our tab. All in all, we are the right demographic for this place, but with MUCH better options all over the area, we won't be returning nor recommending this place to anyone wanting a decent brunch for two, especially at the cost of over $140.